This guest post is by Alisa Martin, on behalf of Onlinecollegecourses.com.
More and more English is becoming the universal language. But for non-native English speakers, learning English can be a challenge. Not only is the vocabulary different, but the grammar can make the language very difficult to learn. There are ways to get around this problem and become fluent in English. It takes some practice; however, learning to read and speak the language can also be a lot of fun. Although some people take classes, these tips will help you to master the basics of the language without necessarily taking a class.
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1. Listening to the Language Helps
One good way to learn English is to listen to English speakers. There are a number of ways to do this. Here are two of them:
- Music: Download an English language mp3, and listen to it as you go about your daily activities. This activity makes you familiar with the sound of the words and makes learning the language easier.
- Movies: Watching a popular movie in English can also help. It allows you to see and hear how the language is used in everyday situations. If the movie comes with subtitles in your native tongue, that extra information can help while you watch. It will allow you to identify the English equivalent of the words you use every day.
2. Do a Little at a Time
An excellent way to begin to learn English is to learn a few words every day. Each language has millions of words. Attempting to learn too many of them at one time can be overwhelming. Many people have had success learning three to five words a day. When you learn a new word, try to use it as much as possible with English speakers. Listen to the way they pronounce and use it. Over the course of a few weeks, you will be able to have short conversations in English, and your confidence will begin to grow. Reading a little English each day will also help. Write, listen to, and speak the language as much as possible.
3. Think in English
During the day people perform numerous activities. As you perform each activity, think of the English phrase for what you are doing. For example, if you are washing your car, think and then say in English, “I am washing my car.” If you do this consistently, you will not only learn new phrases, but you will also train yourself to actually begin to think in English.
4. Use English Often
Try to put yourself in the presence of English speakers often. Listen to them. Ask a few questions for clarity. Try out the vocabulary words you have learned. At first both you and they may feel a little uncomfortable or laugh at your pronunciation. Gradually, you will find yourself comfortably carrying on conversations in English and understanding exactly what the Anglophones are talking about.
Listen to fun English radio shows and read fun books in English. Gradually the phrases you hear and see will become a part of your vocabulary and you will be speaking English.
Which English-learning activity is the best one for you? In other words, which one helps you the most? Tell us in the comments below.
Alisa Martin is a freelance writer, professional blogger, and social media enthusiast. Her blog Onlinecollegecourses.com focuses on Education bloggers. You can follow her on Google+.
